We will start by completing a few short question
and answer phrases. This time we will start with 2 bars +
2 bars phrases

Here is an example of this kind of question and
answer.

Notice how the melody starts on the dominant note.
Its general shape jumps up at the beginning and works its way back down to
the dominant at the end of the first two bars. This general shape is
repeated for the answer, ending of the dominant

Here are a number of examples for you to try

Now try a few 4 bar + 4 bar
phrases, here are some examples.

1

2

3

TASK 1

How to start creating your own 8 bar melody?

STEP 1 Pick a key which is easy for you to
write in and suitable for the voice/ instrument which you want.

STEP 2 You should start your melody on the tonic (1st) or
the dominant (5th) note of that key e.g.
In the key of G you could start on a G or a D but finishing on a G will
make your melody sound more complete.

STEP 3
Create your 4 bar question first. Try to build up to a
climax ending on the tonic note an octave higher or the dominant.

STEP 4
Finally compose your own answer and try to use some of the rhythms
and shapes used in the question. Finish on the tonic note.

HOW TO
DEVELOP A MELODY?

There
are a wide variety of different way in which you can develop and vary your
melodies.

Repetition

Sequences

Varying rhythms

Augmentation

Diminution

Ornamentation

Modulation

TASK 2

Try to create your own 16 bar melody using some of
the devices above

STEP 1
Again decided on your key and instrument/voice. Start on the tonic
note